Arriving from the Czech Republic, I will have one day and one night before a VERY early am departure to the States via Brussels. I will be arriving Vienna on a Eurocity train to the South train station. Is my best be to stay in the city center and take an early am cab to the airport (do cabs run 24/7?), OR should we trek to an airport hotel from the south train terminal? I will have two teens with me who have never seen Vienna. We will want to pack our day with as much as possible, while making our trip to the airport as easy as possible in the wee hours of the morning!
Thanks!
Cindi

I don't think its really necessary to stay near the airport. The CAT (City Airport Train) takes you directly from the airport to the Vienna city center in about fifteen minutes, and it runs very frequently. Given the amount of time you will be in Vienna, I think you should stay in the center and see all you can without wasting time getting between an airport hotel and the city.

See http://tinyurl.com/fgwyh for more info on the CAT.

Tracy

I would take a cab. Public transportation invariably takes more time, something which is a precious commodity in the wee hours. Although it may cost more, may not be as big a factor as the time, especially since you have three people in the cab. Can't help you with availability of cabs at that time (what time will you need the cab?). We had a 10:00 am flight from Vienna in January, and that was early enough for us. Our hotel arranged the taxi, and it came at 6:45 am.

We have been to Prague and Vienna twice with our teens, and they have had a fantastic time. Have you seen the current thread about what to see in Vienna?

Thanks for your replies. I think a cab sounds like the best idea. I'll check that thread.

With such a short time (what a shame!), stay in the city, as close to St. Stephan's cathedral as you can as that is the "heart" of Vienna and puts you squarely in the pedestrian zone. There are several hotels in that area with the Fodorite seal of approval such as the Kaiserin Elisabeth. Your hotel can easily book a cab to come whenever you need it no matter how early. One thing I like about staying at the KE is that they always make sure the cabbie taking me to the airport drives a nice, big new Mercedes (charging the same rate as any other taxi, of course).
There are many threads here on how to see the highlights of Vienna in just a day or two. Have a nice trip!
P.S. The Brussels airport shops have great selections of chocolate, save some room for it in your carryon
P.P.S. The Sudbahnhof station in Vienna is pretty dumpy and a little seedy looking. Don't be discouraged, the rest of the city is much, much better!

Thanks, B.
I am happy to report that I will be able to add another night to my stay. --Much better! I have also been able to book a hotel near the cathedral--Konig von Ungarn. Stayed there two years ago. Love the location, etc.! I can have them arrange a cab for my early am departure.
Appreciate your input!